Job Description

The Production Manager will be responsible for overseeing the entire plant operation, from raw material planning to final product dispatch. You will ensure that production targets are met efficiently, quality standards are upheld, and costs are controlled. A key aspect of this role is developing staff skills and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety. The successful candidate will be based at our factory in Bulawayo.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Operations & Production Planning
• Achieve monthly production and turnover targets through effective planning and resource allocation.
• Direct day-to-day operations to ensure optimal workflow, minimal downtime, and maximum efficiency.
• Implement and manage Material Requirements Planning (MRP) to prevent stock-outs and ensure raw material availability.
• Ensure production schedules are flexible enough to meet sales demands and that customer lead times are consistently met.
• Oversee the timely production of seasonal stock ranges to meet market demands.
2. Quality Assurance & Product Development
• Uphold a "zero-defect" mentality, ensuring the team produces nothing but high-quality products.
• Conduct regular quality control checks at every stage of production to minimize returns and rework.
• Collaborate with the team on research and design for new furniture products.
• Develop and enforce company specifications for finishes, hardware, and materials.
• Address and resolve all quality issues raised by customers promptly.
3. Cost Control & Efficiency
• Monitor and control operational expenditure (OPEX), including overtime and raw material wastage.
• Conduct Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) for new projects and process improvements.
• Ensure efficient use of raw materials to minimize waste and maximize yield.
• Manage the wage bill in line with production output to ensure profitability.
4. Team Leadership & Development
• Lead, mentor, and coach the production team, fostering a culture of skill development and high performance.
• Allocate work, monitor performance, and conduct regular feedback sessions with subordinates.
• Manage staff relations, including grievances and disciplinary hearings, in line with company policies and the labour act.
5. Safety, Compliance & Maintenance
• Ensure absolute adherence to all safety procedures as per company policy, NSSA regulations, and Municipal by-laws.
• Conduct routine and random factory safety inspections.
• Liaise with service departments for equipment procurement, servicing, and maintenance.
• Plan and oversee the annual shut-down maintenance for all factory equipment.
• Ensure all work-related accidents are reported and managed in line with health protocols.
6. Reporting & Inventory
• Produce accurate monthly reports on production, costs, and plant performance.
• Maintain an accurate and up-to-date factory asset inventory.
• Manage the supply chain effectively to support overall company profitability.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: Diploma in Production Management, Technical Studies, or a related field from a recognized technical college.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of proven experience in a production management role, preferably within the furniture manufacturing industry.
• Location: Must be willing and able to work and be based in Bulawayo.
• Technical Skills: Strong understanding of production processes, raw materials (specifically furniture-related), and machinery.
• Quality Focus: An exceptional eye for detail and a demonstrable commitment to maintaining high product quality standards.
• Leadership: Proven ability to coach, mentor, motivate, and develop a team.
• Mindset: A critical thinker with excellent problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to process improvement.
• Competencies: Highly organized, strong communication skills, high integrity, and the ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision

How to Apply

If you meet the above requirements and are ready to lead a production team to excellence, please submit your application.
Send your CV and certified academic certificates to: [email protected]
Subject Line: Production Manager Application - Bulawayo

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